The No. 41 pick at the 2011 national draft has yet to play an AFL game but has been a standout for his SANFL club Norwood in recent weeks.

"You lose one soldier and you can always replace him and he's ready,'' the injured Dangerfield said of the 20-year-old midfielder who is an elite left-foot kick.

"His form for Norwood has been outstanding and he's certainly done enough to warrant selection.

"We've had some players who have been in really good form and who have been unlucky not to have played some games and Mitch Grigg is probably the perfect example of that.

"He's been really close on a number of occasions and I'm sure he will come into contention again. We've got a few young players who are ready to step up at AFL level.''

Dangerfield said key forward/utility Lewis Johnston was also ready to "stake his claim'' for a spot against Geelong on Sunday after two strong games for North Adelaide after returning from a serious knee injury.

"I sat back on the couch and watched his game on the weekend for North (against Glenelg) and he was unbelievable,'' Dangerfield said.

"When James Craig went down (injured), Lewis' effort in the ruck was incredible.

"To come back from injury a couple of weeks ago and basically play on-ball the whole game was super impressive.

"He's the best forward in the SANFL, his statistics reflect that, and he's going to be a good player for us.

"He's one of those players who has taken a fair while to mature into his body but if he gets his opportunity I'm more than confident that he can come in and play a good role for us.''

Johnston, 22, has played just one game for the Crows - against Fremantle in round 20 last year - after his trade from Sydney.

The No. 12 pick in the 2008 national draft from the Roosters was swapped to Adelaide at the end of 2011 in a complicated trade which was effectively for Tony Armstrong.

Johnston played two games for the Swans.

A strong mark, Johnston's Roosters coach, Josh Francou, says he is the best kick for goal he has ever seen.

Like Dangerfield, Francou said Johnston is ready for a sustained look at AFL footy which will give the Crows a better look at what they have got.

It is understood Johnston is out of contract at the end of the season.

"He's a very good footballer,'' Francou said.

"He's the sort of bloke who gives you value for touches because when he gets the ball good things happen.

"If he gets four shots at goal from just outside 50 he normally kicks four goals.

"I haven't seen a better kick for goal than him. He's a very confident, beautiful kick.''

Johnston had an amazing 29 disposals, eight marks and 17 hit-outs against Glenelg, as well as kicking three goals.

"We love having him at North Adelaide but it's probably time for him to prove his worth at the next level,'' Francou said.